Abstract: An operating unit has a display screen, a data processing device, and at least one hand button for the operation of injection molding machine elements. Items of information which are associated with injection molding elements and which are present in the injection molding machine can be called up by the data processing device. Items of status information which are associated with injection molding elements and which are present in the injection molding machine can be called up by the data processing device. Upon actuation of the at least one hand button, if the status information associated with the corresponding injection molding machine element indicates activatability, at least one operating signal can be sent to the injection molding machine and the associated items of information can be represented on the display screen. Otherwise, the associated items of information and a warning indication indicating non-activatability can be represented.